Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Symptoms
- Causes
- Diagnosis
- Treatment for Calf Strain
- When to Seek Further Medical Attention?
- FAQ
Introduction
A calf strain is a frequent ailment that can occur during athletic activities such as sprinting, jumping, or abrupt changes in direction. Overstretching or tearing of the calf muscle at the back of the lower leg causes it. Calf strains can be uncomfortable and impair an individual’s movement, making daily activities difficult. Understanding the symptoms and causes of calf strains, as well as seeking immediate medical attention, is critical for effective treatment and preventing future muscle damage.
Symptoms
A calf strain is characterized by a tear in the calf muscle located at the back of the lower leg. Common symptoms of a calf strain include sudden stabbing pain in the calf, difficulty standing or walking, and tightening or stiffening of the calf muscle.
Causes
Calf strains happen when the calf muscle is stretched too far, which happens a lot while you’re sprinting or running uphill. Inadequate warm-up, tight or stiff calf muscles, tiredness, and a rapid increase in the frequency or intensity of training can all raise the risk of a calf strain.
Diagnosis
To treat a calf strain, a specialist will examine and check the extent of the calf injury and determine if there are any tears in your calf muscle. The specialist may recommend a suitable treatment plan that can reduce pain and swelling and promote healing. The severity of the injury will determine the course of action that the specialist takes.
Treatment for Calf Strain
When dealing with a calf strain, seeking medical attention from a sports and orthopaedic specialist is crucial. The specialist will assess the extent of the injury and determine the severity of damage to the calf muscle. Based on their evaluation, the specialist may recommend a personalized treatment plan to reduce pain and swelling, and to promote healing. In some instances, a referral to a physiotherapist may be made to strengthen the calf muscles as part of the recovery process. Physiotherapy can help improve mobility, flexibility, and range of motion in the calf muscle. It is advisable to revisit the specialist if the symptoms persist beyond a week for further evaluation and treatment.
When to Seek Further Medical Attention?
If your symptoms persist beyond a week, it is recommended to see the specialist again for further evaluation and treatment. It is important to address the injury promptly to prevent further damage.
Calf Strain FAQ
- Inability to balance on your toes.
- Unable to support your leg's weight or walk.
- Severe or persistent calf pain.
- Struggle to move your ankle or knee.
- Significant bruising or swelling in your ankle, foot, or lower leg.
Appointments
If you would like an appointment / review with our calf strain specialist in Singapore, the best way is to call +65 3135 1327 or click here to book an appointment at the clinic. If you would like to speak to one of our clinicians first, then please contact contact@orthopaedicclinic.com.sg or SMS/WhatsApp to +65 3135 1327
Rest assured that the best possible care will be provided for you.
